You've got to have something to eat and a little love in your life before you can hold still for any damn body's sermon on how to behave.
Billie HolidayRead
I hate straight singing. I have to change a tune to my own way of doing it. That's all I know.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Billie Holiday expresses her need for individuality and creative expression in music.
This quote reflects Billie Holiday's perspective on art and music, emphasizing the importance of personal interpretation and authenticity in one's creative endeavors. Rather than adhering to traditional or expected norms of performance, she values the freedom to adapt and change a song to fit her unique style, which speaks to the broader theme of individuality in artistic expression.
Themes
IndividualityCreativityMusicArtExpression
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a discussion about the importance of artistic freedom in music classes.
More from Billie Holiday
All quotes →One day a whole damn song fell into place in my head.
Billie HolidayRead
I'm always making a comeback but nobody ever tells me where I've been.
Billie HolidayRead
A kiss that is never tasted, is forever and ever wasted.
Billie HolidayRead
Don't threaten me with love, baby. Let's just go walking in the rain.
Billie HolidayRead
I joined Count Basie's band to make a little money and to see the world. For two years I didn't see anything but the inside of a Blue Goose bus, and I never got to send home a quarter.
Billie HolidayRead
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